Myanmar is preparing for a general election this month, but don’t expect a celebration of democracy. The country’s military government, which seized power in a 2021 coup, is facing heavy criticism as it moves forward with polls that many observers deem neither free nor fair.
Ahead of the multi-phase vote, over 200 people have already been charged with violating strict election laws. These aren’t just minor infractions; under the military’s new regulations, any attempt to oppose or disrupt the election process can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and in some cases, even the death penalty. Those targeted range from filmmakers and actors to pro-democracy activists and even children, accused of actions like damaging campaign materials or sharing critical views online. Disturbingly, some have reportedly received sentences as long as 49 years.
Critics argue these elections are merely a “facade” to legitimize the military’s iron grip, which began after they overthrew the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup ignited a widespread civil war, complicating the possibility of genuine elections across many contested regions. A major point of contention is the exclusion of Suu Kyi’s hugely popular National League for Democracy (NLD) party, which won landslide victories in previous elections but was forced to disband.
The military initially justified its 2021 takeover by claiming unproven irregularities in the prior election results. Despite international calls for a legitimate democratic process, the military spokesperson bluntly stated that external opinions don’t matter, as the election is “for Myanmar.” However, with the main opposition silenced and dissent met with such extreme force, the credibility of these upcoming polls remains deeply in doubt.
